Ivory Coast

Les Éléphants have long been one of Africa's most talent-rich sides, producing a wave of stars who became fixtures at Europe's biggest clubs during the 2000s and 2010s. The team plays with physical power and attacking verve, and its passionate home support turned the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations into a national celebration. Ivory Coast remains a perennial continental contender with title-winning pedigree at both the club-export and international level.

Founded around independence in 1960, the Ivorian federation has overseen three Africa Cup of Nations titles: 1992, 2015 and 2023 — the latter won as tournament hosts after a stunning mid-tournament coaching change and comeback run. The golden generation of Didier Drogba, Yaya Touré and Kolo Touré reached three straight World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014) without ever escaping the group stage, making the eventual 2023 home triumph an especially cathartic moment for the country.